Current Project

Elevated Composite Palm Tree Silo

Description

The elevated composite silo was designed out of necessity in the construction of the newest Las Vegas mega resort – The Fountainebleu. The emphasis on vertical design, making this the tallest hotel in Las Vegas, required a change from typical construction on the 200,000 square foot 9th floor amenities deck. The rotationally cast silo, supported by structural beams to elevate it off the 8th floor, holds 25 foot palm trees and other plant materials. It was designed to allow direct utility runs and capitalize on weight and anti-corrosion inherent in the composite. Engineering/design included the use of FEA, structural adhesives and fire retardant resins.

Product Function

The design features a structurally supported composite “silo” allowing utility runs (drain lines, water, electricity, audio, etc.) in a straight shot underneath, significantly simplifying the installation and function. Replacement of typical concrete block also proved to reduce long fabrication times, as well as provide for the inherent corrosion resistance of the all-composite fabrication. The ability to prefabricate the entire structure and drop in place for easy install is a benefit to the planners in the tight construction schedule. Engineering calculations for seismic events and wind loading received county approval.

Process

The elevated composite silo is an assembly of several unique composite materials. The tank is a rotationally molded lay-up of standard E-glass reinforcement and Class 1 fire rated polyester resin and gelcoat. The use of pultruded structural beams supports the silo off the primary deck and adds stiffness to the complete structure. The pultrusion is made with a fire retardant resin. The molds for the silo can be turned in less than 24 hours and assembly with the pultrusion using a structural adhesive can be completed in 1 - 1 1/2 days. Installation on site is approximately 1 hour. The same beginning to end scenario using standard materials is just not possible.

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